An 11-day Kenya wildlife and beach holiday perfectly balances thrilling savannah game drives with relaxing coastal retreats. This itinerary dedicates 6 days to iconic parks like the Masai Mara National Reserve and Amboseli, followed by a scenic flight to Diani Beach for 4 days of ocean relaxation

Tour highlights for 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension

Nairobi city stay

Amboseli elephant herds

Mount Kilimanjaro views

Lion pride sightings

Rift Valley landscape

Naivasha boat ride

Crescent Island walking

Masai Mara plains

Big Five tracking

Wildebeest migration herds

Aerial bush views

Diani Beach sand

Indian Ocean swimming

Marine park snorkeling

Sunset dhow cruise

Coastal spa relaxation

Tropical island breeze

Day by day 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi

Your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension begins with your arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. You will be warmly greeted by our representative and transferred to a comfortable city hotel, allowing you to shake off the fatigue of your long journey. Nairobi, the bustling capital, serves as the gateway to your adventure, offering a perfect blend of modern convenience and nearby natural beauty. Use this evening to relax, enjoy a delicious dinner, and prepare for the exciting itinerary ahead. As you settle in, the anticipation of the wild plains and azure coastal waters begins to build. This initial day is carefully planned to ensure you are well-rested and fully energized to start your journey through Kenya's breathtaking landscapes, setting the ideal foundation for an unforgettable 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension.

Day 2: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park

On the second day of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension, you will depart Nairobi and drive toward the legendary Amboseli National Park. As you leave the city, the landscape transforms into rugged, open plains. Amboseli is world-renowned for offering some of the most iconic views in Africa: massive elephant herds roaming against the backdrop of the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge, where you can watch elephants moving slowly across the horizon from your balcony. The sheer majesty of Africa's tallest mountain towering over the plains provides a stunning start to your wildlife encounters. Each moment spent in this park feels like a scene from a classic adventure novel, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension as you prepare for tomorrow's deep dive into the wild.

Day 3: Amboseli Full-Day

Day three of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension is dedicated to exploring the diverse ecosystems of Amboseli. You will embark on both morning and afternoon game drives, maximizing your chances to encounter the park’s famous residents. Keep your camera ready for pride of lions lounging in the tall grass, cheetahs scanning the horizon for prey, and a vibrant array of birdlife, including flamingos and raptors. The interplay of light on the mountain and the vast dusty plains creates an ethereal atmosphere perfect for photography. Because the park features open savannah and seasonal wetlands, spotting wildlife is remarkably rewarding. Your expert guide will navigate through the terrain, ensuring you see the best of what Amboseli has to offer, making this a pivotal chapter in your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension.

Day 4: Amboseli to Lake Naivasha

Your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension continues as you drive to the Great Rift Valley, reaching the serene shores of Lake Naivasha. This freshwater lake is a haven for biodiversity. In the afternoon, you will take a guided boat ride to get up close to hippos basking in the shallows and various water birds. Afterward, you will enjoy a unique walking safari on Crescent Island. Being on foot amidst giraffes, zebras, and antelopes provides an intimate connection to the wildlife that you simply cannot get from a vehicle. This change of pace is a highlight of the trip, offering a refreshing perspective on the Kenyan landscape. Surrounded by hills and lush vegetation, the beauty of Naivasha provides a tranquil interlude during your action-packed 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension.

Day 5: Lake Naivasha to Masai Mara

On day five of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension, you will journey to the crown jewel of Kenya’s parks: the Masai Mara National Reserve. As you arrive, the landscape expands into endless rolling plains that seem to touch the sky. You will check into your camp or lodge in time for a late afternoon game drive, providing your first glimpse of the incredible animal density that makes the Mara so famous. Seeing a lion pride at sunset or a cheetah perched on a termite mound is an experience that stays with you forever. The air here feels alive with potential, and the thrill of being in the heart of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuary is palpable. Every moment here confirms why you chose this 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension.

Day 6: Masai Mara Full-Day

Day six is the absolute centerpiece of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension. You will spend a full day traversing the sweeping plains of the Masai Mara in search of the "Big Five": lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. The reserve is also home to thousands of wildebeest and zebras, ensuring that there is always movement across the horizon. Your guide will track predators, share insights into the delicate balance of the ecosystem, and position you for incredible sightings. Whether you witness a hunt or simply watch a family of elephants interacting, the experience is profoundly moving. The scale of the Mara is humbling, and the raw, untamed beauty of this environment is exactly what makes your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension such a life-changing travel experience.

Day 7: Masai Mara to Nairobi & Flight to Coast

On day seven of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension, you will enjoy one final morning game drive before flying back to Nairobi. This short flight offers a stunning bird’s-eye view of the landscape you just explored. Upon landing in Nairobi, you will transfer to your coastal flight bound for Ukunda or Mombasa. As you descend, the lush greens of the bush are replaced by the vibrant turquoise of the Indian Ocean. Upon arrival, you will be whisked away to a luxury beach resort in Diani Beach. The shift from the dusty savannah to the cool, salty breeze of the coast is breathtaking. This is the official start of your relaxation phase, and you will quickly realize how perfectly balanced your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension has become.

Day 8: Diani Beach Relaxation

Days eight through ten of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension are dedicated to the pure bliss of Diani Beach. Today, you can start by simply unwinding on the pristine white sand or taking a refreshing dip in the warm Indian Ocean. The pace is entirely up to you. Diani is famous for its long, palm-fringed coastline and crystal-clear waters, offering a peaceful sanctuary after your safari. Whether you prefer reading a book under a parasol, taking long walks along the shoreline, or enjoying the local coastal cuisine at your resort, the serenity here is unmatched. This is the time to reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters you had earlier in your trip. Truly, this 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension provides the perfect contrast between wild adventure and complete tropical relaxation.

Day 9: Marine Exploration

Continuing your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension at Diani Beach, today is perfect for exploring the wonders beneath the waves. You can book a trip to the nearby Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park, one of the most beautiful marine reserves in the world. Here, you can snorkel or dive among colorful coral reefs, observing exotic tropical fish, sea turtles, and, if you are lucky, playful dolphins. The clarity of the water is spectacular, making every underwater encounter feel magical. If you prefer to stay above water, a sunset dhow cruise offers a traditional and romantic way to see the coastline as the sky turns brilliant shades of gold and orange. These marine experiences add an adventurous twist to your stay, ensuring that your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension remains exciting until the very last day.

Day 10: Coastal Indulgence

On the penultimate day of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension, take the time to soak in every last bit of the Kenyan coast. You might enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment at your resort, visit the local artisan markets to pick up unique souvenirs, or simply enjoy a quiet lunch while watching the waves roll in. The laid-back atmosphere of the coast is infectious, and you will feel your stress melt away completely. This is a wonderful opportunity to organize your photos and share your favorite stories from the safari portion of your trip with fellow travelers. It’s the final stretch of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension, and every moment of peace is a reward for the early mornings and long drives you endured in the wild.

Day 11: Departure

On your final day, your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension concludes. After a leisurely breakfast by the Indian Ocean, you will be transferred to Mombasa Moi International Airport for your flight back to Nairobi. From there, you will connect to your international flight for the journey home. As you look back on the last eleven days, you will remember the trumpeting of elephants in Amboseli, the vastness of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, and the tranquil beauty of the Diani coastline. You return home not just with memories, but with a deeper connection to nature and a sense of profound rejuvenation. You have experienced the very best of Kenya’s diverse landscapes, making this 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension a journey that you will undoubtedly cherish and talk about for many years to come.

1. What destinations are included in this 11-day itinerary?

An 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension is designed to showcase the incredible diversity of the country, spanning from high-altitude wilderness to tropical coastlines. The safari portion typically focuses on the "Northern Circuit" of parks. This usually includes Amboseli National Park, celebrated for its iconic elephant herds and majestic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Great Rift Valley, where you explore the freshwater beauty of Lake Naivasha and the scenic Crescent Island. The pinnacle of the adventure is the Masai Mara National Reserve, world-famous for its sweeping golden plains and the density of its "Big Five" population. After the intensity of the bush, the itinerary transitions to the coastal gem of Diani Beach or Mombasa. These beach destinations provide the perfect turquoise-water conclusion to your trip, allowing you to experience the contrast between Kenya’s rugged interior and the serene, palm-fringed shores of the Indian Ocean.

2. When is the best time to do this safari and beach combo?

Timing is crucial for an 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension to ensure you experience both the best wildlife sightings and perfect beach weather. The two primary "dry seasons"—January to February and July to October—are widely considered the golden windows for travel. During the July to October period, the legendary Great Migration sees millions of wildebeest and zebra moving through the Masai Mara, offering perhaps the most spectacular wildlife theater on Earth. These months also bring clear, sunny days that are ideal for both game drives and lounging on Diani Beach. While Kenya is a year-round destination, traveling during these dry periods ensures the grass is shorter, making animals easier to spot, and provides the warm, dry coastal conditions that make your beach extension feel like a true tropical paradise.

3. Will I get to see the "Big Five"?

Spotting the "Big Five"—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—is a central goal of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension. While nature is unpredictable, Kenya’s premier reserves, especially the Masai Mara, provide some of the best odds in the world. Lions are frequently seen in prides across the Mara, while elephants are the signature giants of Amboseli. Leopards, though elusive and solitary, are often spotted draped over acacia branches in the riverine forests of the Mara, and large buffalo herds are a common sight across both parks. The black rhino, the most elusive of the group, has seen successful conservation efforts in these areas, and your expert guides are highly skilled in tracking their movements. With several days dedicated to game viewing, your chances of completing your "Big Five" checklist are exceptionally high.

4. How do I get from the safari parks to the beach?

Efficiency is the key to maintaining the luxury and flow of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension. To avoid the exhaustion of multi-day road travel, most travelers opt for internal "bush flights." You will typically take a light aircraft from a dirt airstrip in the Masai Mara or from Wilson Airport in Nairobi directly to the coast, landing at either Ukunda (serving Diani Beach) or Mombasa. This short flight transforms a grueling 10-plus-hour drive into a scenic 90-minute hop, allowing you more time to sip cocktails by the ocean. While private road transfers are possible for those who wish to see the changing landscapes of the Kenyan countryside, flying is almost universally recommended to ensure your transition from safari excitement to beach relaxation is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

5. What should I pack for both environments?

Packing for an 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension requires a bit of strategy to cover two very different climates. For the safari portion, prioritize neutral, earth-toned clothing like khaki, tan, or olive green. These colors help you blend into the bush, keep you cool, and minimize insect attraction. Bring breathable layers, as early mornings in the highlands can be surprisingly chilly. For the beach, the atmosphere is much more casual: lightweight swimwear, sundresses, sandals, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential. Don't forget high-SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses for the glare of the plains and ocean, and a sturdy pair of walking shoes for any nature walks. Since you will likely be using light aircraft for internal travel, remember to use soft-sided luggage, as hard suitcases can be difficult to store on smaller safari planes.

6. Do I need a visa to enter Kenya?

Yes, entry requirements for your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension must be handled well in advance. Kenya requires most international visitors to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before their flight. This is an online process, and it is highly recommended that you complete your application through the official Kenya Immigration Portal at least two weeks before your departure. Do not rely on third-party sites; always use the official government portal to avoid unnecessary fees or processing errors. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining and plenty of blank pages. Staying informed about the latest entry protocols on the official government website is the best way to ensure your arrival in Nairobi is smooth and your holiday begins without any administrative hitches.

7. Are vaccines required for this trip?

Health and safety are paramount for your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension. While routine vaccines should always be up to date, the Yellow Fever vaccine is specifically required if you are traveling from an area where the disease is endemic. Beyond mandatory shots, malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for almost all parts of Kenya, especially the lush, humid coastal regions like Diani Beach. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least six to eight weeks before you depart to discuss the best antimalarial medication for your specific needs. Additionally, staying hydrated and drinking only bottled or filtered water is standard practice across the safari circuit. Checking the latest CDC or World Health Organization travel guidance for Kenya will provide you with the most up-to-date and tailored health advice for your journey.

8. What kind of vehicle will we use for the safari?

The success of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension often depends on your vehicle. Local operators almost exclusively use customized 4x4 Land Cruisers or specialized safari vans. These vehicles are designed for the rugged, unpredictable terrain of the Kenyan bush and are the backbone of your wildlife viewing. They feature pop-up roofs that allow you to stand up and gain a 360-degree view, which is essential for capturing those perfect wildlife photographs without the obstruction of glass. These vehicles are built to handle bumpy tracks and river crossings, ensuring you reach the deep-bush sightings in safety and relative comfort. Your driver-guide is also an expert at positioning the vehicle so that you have the sun at your back, maximizing the quality of your viewing and photography experience.

9. Is Wi-Fi available during the trip?

While you are on your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension, your access to technology will shift. Most modern luxury lodges in the Masai Mara and Amboseli, as well as the beach resorts in Diani, provide Wi-Fi in their main reception areas or individual suites. However, do not expect high-speed, constant connectivity while deep in the national parks. The remote nature of the bush often means signals can be unstable, which many travelers find to be a welcome relief. It is an ideal opportunity to "unplug" and fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the wild. If you have urgent work, it is best to check with your specific lodges before you arrive, but generally, plan for a digital detox and enjoy the rare luxury of being unreachable.

9. What is a typical day like on safari?

A typical day on your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension is an exhilarating rhythm dictated by the sun. You will typically rise before dawn for a light breakfast, heading out for a morning game drive as the bush wakes up—this is the most active time for predators like lions and cheetahs. After several hours of tracking and photography, you return to the lodge for a hearty brunch. The "heat of the day" is reserved for relaxing, reading on your private deck, or taking a dip in the lodge pool while the animals also find shade. In the late afternoon, you head out for a second game drive, often ending with a "sundowner" drink at a scenic viewpoint as the sun sets. The days are full, rewarding, and leave you perfectly tired for a night under the stars.

11. What activities can I do at Diani Beach?

After the thrill of the bush, the final leg of your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension at Diani Beach is all about leisure and exploration. Beyond simply lounging on the world-famous white sands, you can indulge in a variety of activities. Marine enthusiasts can go snorkeling or scuba diving at the nearby Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park, which is teeming with vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and tropical fish. For a more traditional experience, take a sunset dhow cruise to watch the sky turn brilliant shades of orange over the Indian Ocean. If you are seeking adrenaline, Diani is a premier spot for kite-surfing, or you can opt for a cultural walk through local coastal villages. Whether you choose total relaxation or active exploration, the beach extension provides a perfect, serene end to your journey.

12. Are meals included in the package?

Logistically, your 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension is designed to be effortless. During the safari portion, most packages operate on a "full-board" basis, which means all your meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included in the price. These meals are often prepared by talented chefs and served at your lodge or as a scenic picnic lunch in the wild. Once you reach your beach resort, the arrangement often shifts to half-board or all-inclusive, depending on your package preference. All-inclusive is a popular choice for beach stays, as it covers your meals and often your drinks, allowing you to relax without worrying about the bill. Be sure to check your specific booking details with your tour operator to know exactly what is included in your package.

13. How much physical activity is involved?

The beauty of an 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension is that it is high-reward with low physical exertion. Safaris are largely "passive" adventures; you are safely seated in a 4x4 vehicle for the vast majority of your wildlife viewing. There may be the occasional guided nature walk where you can stretch your legs and learn about the smaller flora and fauna, but these are generally gentle and paced for all fitness levels. The beach extension is equally leisurely, designed for swimming, lounging, and light exploration. It is a fantastic trip for multi-generational families or travelers who want the thrill of a lifetime without needing to trek or endure strenuous physical activity. Every aspect of the trip is designed to prioritize your comfort and ease.

14. Is tipping expected in Kenya?

Tipping is a valued part of the culture during an 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension, serving as a meaningful way to recognize the exceptional service provided by those who work behind the scenes to make your trip special. It is customary to tip your safari driver-guide approximately $10 to $20 USD per guest per day, usually presented in person at the conclusion of your safari. For lodge and beach resort staff, many properties provide a communal tip box at reception, where a contribution of $5 to $10 per night is common and greatly appreciated. For individual services like luggage porters, a small tip of a few dollars per bag is standard. While tipping is never strictly mandatory, it is a powerful gesture of gratitude that directly supports the livelihoods of the local people who ensure your holiday is truly magical.

Booking 11 Days wildlife Kenya safari holiday and beach extension with us Roads of Adventure safaris

Book your 11-day Kenya wildlife safari and beach holiday directly through the Roads of Adventure Safaris booking system. Because our headquarters are conveniently located nearby on Kampala-Entebbe Road in Seguku, Uganda, you can easily drop by to customize your itinerary or call us at +256 701 041637 to speak with a travel planner